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If you’re on the hunt for a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing, look no further than Zesty Lemon Spinach Orzo Delight. This creamy pasta dish is an irresistible combination of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. It marries the earthy tastes of spinach with the zesty brightness of lemon—two ingredients that not only elevate the dish but also provide numerous health benefits.

Creamy Orzo with Lemon & Spinach

Discover the deliciousness of Zesty Lemon Spinach Orzo Delight, a creamy pasta dish that's both satisfying and nourishing. Combining the earthy flavor of spinach with the bright zing of lemon, this recipe is packed with vitamins and minerals. Perfect for any diet, you can easily customize it to fit your preferences. With its unique orzo texture and nutrient-rich ingredients, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Dive in for a delightful culinary experience!

Ingredients
  

1 cup orzo pasta

4 cups vegetable broth (or water)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup heavy cream (or a plant-based alternative)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 lemon

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid.

    Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

      Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.

        Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing well until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a little of the reserved orzo cooking liquid to reach your desired consistency.

          Combine Orzo and Sauce: Gently fold the cooked orzo into the creamy spinach mixture. Stir until the orzo is well coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

            Serve: Remove from heat. Serve warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of lemon zest if desired for added brightness.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 25 mins | Serves 4